Officials at Punchestown have taken the decision to start watering the track ahead of next week's five-day meeting as conditions continue to dry out at the Co. Kildare venue.

The ground is currently good (good to yielding in places) on the hurdle, bumper and chase tracks and the weather forecast is predicted to remain mainly dry over the coming days.

The going on the cross country track is described as good just six days ahead of the Festival.

It has also been announced that Sprinter Sacre will be paraded on the opening day of the Punchestown Festival on Tuesday.

It is four years since the Nicky Henderson-trained superstar rounded off an incredible campaign with victory in the BoyleSports Champion Chase.

Sprinter Sacre added to his victories in the Queen Mother Champion Chase at Cheltenham and the Melling Chase at Aintree on what proved to be his only start on Irish soil in front of a record crowd for the opening day of the 2013 Festival.

Henderson said "For us, Sprinter Sacre's visit to Punchestown was one of the greatest and most memorable day's racing we've had.

"The reception we received was unforgettable and we are delighted to be able to bring him to Ireland to say goodbye.

"This is definitely his farewell tour - he's like the Rolling Stones!"

Sprinter Sacre won 18 of his 24 starts before being retired due to injury prior to the start of this season.